My friend Donna published a blog post a few days ago. In it, she challenged the reader to look back on this year and on the lessons learned. After reflecting on her blog, I decided to take her up on the challenge. The most important lesson I learned this year is that life goes on.
The world doesn’t stop because I’m grieving. The sun rises and the birds sing. Life goes on if I’m happy or if I’m sad so I try not to be sad for too long. I stop and count my blessings. I may or may not feel better when I’m done, but at least I took time to remember the good things in my life.
Life goes on if I’m wasting time on things beyond my control or if I’m minding my own business. I’ve learned to move away from gossip, complaining and chronically unhappy people. I have no time for drama. Being with the people I love and doing things I enjoy is how I want to spend my time.
I’ve learned that I’m emotionally stronger than I thought I was, and it’s ok to laugh when I’m sad. Sometimes I laugh so hard I start to cry, and that’s ok too. Sometimes a good laugh can turn into a therapeutic cry.
The most important lesson I learned this year is a lesson I wish I hadn’t been forced to learn. I learned how much I miss my dad. I’m lucky I had him in my life for so many years. I’m grateful that he made his wishes clear so when his time came, decisions were not heart-wrenching to make. I loved my dad and he loved me. I know that to be true like the air I breathe. And that makes the lesson easier to learn.
What are you grateful for this week?
Yours in Gratitude,
Angela
Well said. I’m glad you accepted the challenge. Your dad seems like an amazing person. I miss mine too, every day.
Sometimes it seems unreal that he’s not here. I appreciate the push your post gave me to organize the thoughts in my head. Thanks Donna.
Angela, The lesson you learned was not learned this past year but learned over a life time. It made you strong, emotionally ready, these were the lessons that your dad taught you while growing up. He taught you laughter, he taught you to cry. I’m sure the lessons your dad taught you all these years are being passed to your children so that they can stand tall when the challenges of life face them one day.
Always learn and always teach…..
So true Anthony. Thank you.